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The red kangaroo named Winnie died after receiving care for "a myriad of health issues" at Popcorn Park Animal Refuge, the park said in a Facebook post on Wednesday, Apr. 18. Winnie arrived at the Lacey Township sanctuary in June 2022.
Popcorn Park caretakers gave Winnie daily medicine and special veterinary visits so she could have "a peaceful, loving home."
"However, throughout the past few weeks, her health began to decline, and unfortunately she was not responding to any medications or treatment," Popcorn Park said in its Facebook post. "Through her last moments, our staff stayed with her, showering her with all the love and attention she could ask for. We take comfort in knowing that she is now at peace and that we were able to give her the relaxing home and specialized care she needed.
"Winnie was one-of-a-kind and will forever hold a very special place in our hearts."
According to Popcorn Park, Winnie was born with juvenile cataracts. She had corrective surgery but eventually lost her vision completely after developing glaucoma.
Popcorn Park took in Winnie because when another kangaroo brushed up against her, she would get scared and frantically hop. Sometimes, she would end up bumping into other kangaroos, trees, or fences.
The sanctuary gave Winnie a small enclosure, allowing her to get used to her environment and preventing her from hurting herself. She enjoyed napping in the sun on warm days, taking in all of the park's sounds, and even eating popcorn.
Winnie's fans shared their memories of the marsupial.
"So sorry Winnie," one Facebook commenter posted. "You were loved 💖🙏🏻💕 Thank you Popcorn Park Animal Refuge for all the care and love you gave Winnie. She was one of a kind. 💕💕 Condolences to all those who loved her 🙏🏻💐."
"I'm so sorry for your loss," another person commented. "Winnie had a good life with Popcorn Park thank you for all you do for all the animals 🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏."
In March, the sanctuary also mourned the death of Eli, a tiger who lived there for about eight years. He arrived with his sister Jess in December 2016.
Popcorn Park started in 1977 when the founders treated and housed a raccoon stuck in a leg-hold trap, according to its website. The Associated Humane Societies runs the nonprofit refuge, which cares for wildlife, exotic animals, and farm animals.
The sanctuary is home to more than 200 animals given "spacious living quarters and assured a lifetime of good care." The animals were rescued from abandonment, cruelty, injuries, exploitation, old age, or inappropriate owners.
Popcorn Park is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closes early on holidays.
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